Starboard – The Tiki Story

When it comes to windsurfing and stand-up paddling (SUP), Starboard is one of the best and most innovative brands worldwide. Since its foundation, the company has put itself at the forefront of the water sports industry through tireless research, groundbreaking inventions and outstanding sporting achievements. But what is behind Starboard's success? Let's delve into the exciting history and impressive innovations of this legendary brand.

The Beginning – A Champion's Dream

Starboard was founded in 1994 by Svein Rasmussen, a former windsurfing world champion. Rasmussen had a clear vision: to develop windsurfing and SUP equipment that is high-performance, user-friendly and environmentally friendly. With his in-depth expertise and tireless spirit of innovation, he began to revolutionize windsurfing.

As early as 1998, Starboard launched the famous “Go” series – a groundbreaking development that made windsurfing accessible to a wide audience. Thanks to the combination of a wide shape and easier handling, beginners and advanced windsurfers alike were able to jump on the boards and make progress.

The iconic logo – A connection to the water

The Starboard Tiki symbol comes from the Inca god-king Tiki Vichara, who, according to Thor Heyerdahl, traveled from Peru to Polynesia and became the god of wind and water there. Heyerdahl proved in 1947 with a 4600-mile journey on a balsa raft that this theory is possible. The name Starboard comes from the Old Norse “styri” (oar) and “boro” (board). Founder Svein Rasmussen comes from Arendal, once a major shipbuilding town. Starboard combines tradition with innovation and is passionate about developing high-quality boards inspired by history, art and fun on the water. The brand stands for quality, sustainability and adventure.

The champion brand Starboard

Starboard is not only popular in the leisure sector, but is also a real success brand among professionals. The Starboard Dream Team, consisting of world-class athletes, regularly dominates international competitions.

Some of the most notable successes of Starboard athletes are:

• Connor Baxter, who has won countless world titles in stand-up paddling (SUP), including the Pan American Games and the ICF World Championship.
• Alba Alonso Frey, who was crowned ISA Sprint World Champion in 2024, riding a Starboard SUP.

Thanks to continuous innovation, Starboard has made a name for itself in professional water sports and is synonymous with performance, quality and style.

Always one step ahead

An important part of Starboard's success is constant research and development. Here are some of the most impressive innovations that Starboard has developed:

Carbon-balsa technology

Starboard was the first brand to mass-produce boards with Gold-level EcoBoard status. The combination of carbon fibers and sustainable balsa wood makes the boards lighter, stronger and more environmentally friendly.

Hydrodynamic Shapes

Through continuous testing and design optimization, Starboard has developed board shapes that minimize water resistance for more speed and better maneuverability.

Sustainability – A company with a green heart

In addition to technological innovation, Starboard is actively committed to protecting the environment. The brand aims to offset its CO₂ emissions and uses sustainable materials such as recycled plastic and natural resins. Starboard also supports various environmental protection projects and promotes awareness of the need to preserve our oceans.